Idex impresses royals, guests

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Omar Al Bashir and other leaders watch the launch of an armoured military vehicle at the Tawazun pavilion during a tour of Idex

Tens of thousands of regional and global visitors swarmed the Capital on Sunday morning, for the opening of Idex and Navdex 2017, which is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President and Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.
The first day began with an opening ceremony, which was attended by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai; His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces; Crown Princes of all the emirates; Omar Al Bashir, President of Sudan; defence ministers of various nations, head of delegates and other senior officials.
The lively ceremony kicked off with a musical tribute to the Emirati heritage, as well as a performance by Russia's Presidential marching band. An intense combat scenario followed, which mimicked life-like battles that involved the UAE Special Forces, armoured vehicles, attack helicopters, combat aircraft and a submarine, which left audiences and special guests struck in awe.
The 1,235 entities from 27 countries, certainly impressed the royals who were in attendance. UAE exhibitors made a substantial and striking impact on the first day, with their dazzling stands.
Dr Saeed H Al Kalbani, deputy manager of the UAE National Military Museum, told Khaleej Times that it was only natural for the local museum to take part in what is perhaps the most superior military and defence event in the region.
"We want to show the UAE's military in terms of its meaningful history, its imprint and heritage.
"It is crucial for us to take part in this exhibition because the event focuses largely on new and modern developments within the military industry." Dr Al Kalbani pointed out that there is a great importance of UAE's past military, which will forever hold an impact on the nation's present and future military role.
Major Jamil Khamis Al Saadi, Nation Shield UAE G.H.Q. Armed Forces, said this year's exhibition has given a rise in opportunities for the UAE and global entities to work hand-in-hand, share ideas and knowledge, particularly when it comes to expanding security measures. "It is vital for companies within the military and defence industry to join this exhibition, because it allows them to see the latest and greatest technologies and innovations.
"The event is the meeting point for these companies, and Idex is growing bigger and better each and every year."

Mega military deals
The first day of Idex 2017 also saw some mega successes in military procurement deals, which amounted to Dh4.416 billion.
The deals were made with both the local and international military, defence and armour industries, including between the UAE and the UK, France and Poland.
The deals awarded also included a Dh2 billion to the UAE's NIMR Automotive, part of Tawazun Holdings, for the supply of 400 armoured vehicles to the UAE Armed Forces.
Brigadier-General Rashid Mohammed Al Shamsi, official spokesperson for Idex, said the contracts this year will undoubtedly beat the overall number of deals made back in Idex 2015, which amounted to Dh18.3 billion. "We expect this year's deals to reach Dh20 billion."
jasmine@khaleejtimes.com

• Abu Dhabi